A Brief History of the Taurus Model 66
The world of firearms often evokes images of sleek automatics and tactical rifles. However, the timeless revolver, with its rich history and dependable nature, holds a special place in the hearts of firearm enthusiasts. Among the many revolvers that have graced the market, the Taurus Model 66 stands out as a compelling offering, blending affordability with solid performance. This review dives deep into the Taurus Model 66, exploring its features, evaluating its performance, weighing its pros and cons, and ultimately, helping you determine if it’s the right firearm for your needs.
Before we delve into the specifics of the Taurus Model 66, it’s important to understand its heritage. Taurus, the Brazilian firearms manufacturer, has carved a significant niche for itself in the global gun market. Initially known for importing firearms, Taurus rapidly expanded its manufacturing capabilities, eventually producing its own line of handguns and rifles. The Model 66, entering the scene, cemented Taurus’s reputation as a provider of reliable and budget-friendly revolvers.
The genesis of the Model 66 lies in its design, drawing inspiration from classic revolver designs, most notably the Smith & Wesson Model 19. This lineage underscores the Model 66’s commitment to time-tested revolver principles. Taurus has refined and improved the Model 66 over the years, adapting it to meet the demands of both civilian and law enforcement markets.
Unveiling the Features and Specifications
The Taurus Model 66 offers a variety of features that make it a notable option. The core of this revolver is its robust construction, typically featuring a steel frame, contributing to its durability and the ability to withstand the pressures of powerful cartridges. The finish of the gun is available in various options. While the stainless steel variants are prized for their resistance to corrosion and their modern aesthetic, the blued finishes are appreciated for a more classic look.
The Model 66 is chambered primarily in .357 Magnum, a round known for its significant stopping power. The ability to also safely fire .38 Special rounds adds versatility and allows for a wider range of shooting experiences, from target practice to personal defense. The Model 66 typically holds seven rounds, a capacity that provides a significant advantage over traditional six-shot revolvers.
This revolver operates with a double-action/single-action (DA/SA) mechanism. This means the shooter can either pull the trigger through its full stroke to cock and fire the gun (double-action), or manually cock the hammer for a lighter, crisper single-action pull. This versatility caters to both rapid-fire scenarios and precision shooting.
The sights are another critical element. The Model 66 generally features adjustable rear sights, allowing for precise elevation and windage adjustments to suit the shooter’s preferences and the ammunition used. The front sight is typically a ramped design, providing a clear sight picture.
Grips are another crucial aspect of a gun’s feel. The Model 66 often comes with comfortable rubber grips, which offer a secure and confident hold, even in adverse conditions. These grips help absorb some of the felt recoil, making the gun more manageable to shoot. The overall weight of the Model 66 is substantial enough to help absorb recoil, but not so heavy as to become cumbersome to carry.
These features, meticulously crafted, reveal Taurus’s commitment to a solid, reliable, and versatile revolver platform.
Exploring the Design and Ergonomics
Beyond its features, the Taurus Model 66 boasts a thoughtful design that contributes to its overall appeal. The lines of the gun are generally clean and classic, reflecting the timeless appeal of revolvers. The Model 66, in its various configurations, embodies a sense of purposeful design.
The feel of the grip is particularly important. The rubber grips, often provided, play a vital role in providing a secure and comfortable hold. The shape and texture are designed to promote a good grip, enabling the shooter to maintain control during recoil. The grips are also generally suitable for a range of hand sizes, making the gun accessible to a broad audience.
Control accessibility is paramount. The cylinder release, typically located on the left side of the frame, is within easy reach for most shooters. The hammer, whether used for single-action or double-action firing, is positioned for effortless operation. The trigger itself is another crucial point. The double-action pull, when fired from a fully uncocked position, provides a smooth and controlled pull, while the single-action pull is typically lighter and crisper, enabling greater accuracy.
The build quality of the Taurus Model 66, especially at its price point, is noteworthy. While not necessarily rivalling the finishes found in high-end revolvers, the Model 66 presents a robust feel and a well-put-together construction. The overall craftsmanship indicates a commitment to reliability and durability.
Assessing Performance and Handling
The true test of any firearm lies in its performance. To truly understand the Taurus Model 66, it is vital to evaluate its shooting characteristics. When firing the gun, the trigger pull is a central element. The double-action trigger pull, though often a bit heavier than the single-action pull, typically exhibits a smooth and consistent pull. The single-action pull, when the hammer is manually cocked, provides a crisp and clean break, contributing to increased accuracy.
Recoil management is another key area, especially when shooting .357 Magnum rounds. While .38 Special loads offer a gentler shooting experience, .357 Magnum rounds generate a more significant amount of recoil. The Model 66, due to its weight and grip design, manages the recoil effectively, allowing for quick follow-up shots.
Accuracy is critical. The Model 66, with its adjustable sights and capable trigger, generally performs well in terms of accuracy. While individual results may vary, shooters consistently report tight groupings at moderate distances.
Extensive range testing is essential to get a true sense of the gun. Shooting the Model 66 from different distances, and with varying ammunition, provides valuable insights. The ability to assess group sizes and target patterns allows for a deeper understanding of the gun’s capabilities.
Reliability is paramount. The Taurus Model 66 is generally known for its reliability. However, it’s important to assess its functionality during range tests, loading and unloading rounds to examine how the cylinder functions and aligns. Any failures or malfunctions should be carefully noted, though these are often rare occurrences.
Weighing the Advantages and Disadvantages
The Taurus Model 66 offers several significant advantages. One of its primary strengths is its affordability. The Model 66 often presents an attractive price, making it a great option for shooters looking for a reliable revolver.
Accuracy is a crucial advantage. The Model 66’s adjustable sights and functional trigger mechanisms combine to deliver accurate shots. The overall build quality and its diverse features contribute to a comfortable and user-friendly experience. This makes the Taurus Model 66 a capable choice for target shooting, self-defense, and other applications.
Of course, no firearm is without its drawbacks. Some shooters might find the trigger pull, particularly the double-action pull, to be somewhat heavier than desired. The finish of the Model 66, while generally adequate, might not be to the same standard as higher-end revolvers. Potential reliability concerns have been voiced by some users. Customer feedback should always be considered and weighed, as individual experiences may vary.
Comparing to the Competition
In the competitive landscape of revolvers, the Taurus Model 66 competes directly with various offerings, including the Smith & Wesson Model 66. Smith & Wesson’s offering is considered a benchmark in the revolver world. Evaluating the Model 66 against the Smith & Wesson allows us to consider the Taurus offering from a comparative viewpoint.
The price is an essential element of comparison. The Taurus Model 66 often presents a more budget-friendly alternative compared to the Smith & Wesson. Examining any cost savings is vital to understanding the value proposition.
Reliability is a key factor, but it can be subjective. Both models have a reputation for being sturdy and long-lasting.
Exploring Applications and Practical Considerations
The Taurus Model 66 is a versatile firearm suitable for a range of applications. It can be a great choice for self-defense, thanks to its chambering in powerful cartridges and manageable size. Its use for home defense is an equally viable option. The Model 66 can also be utilized for target shooting, where its accuracy and manageable recoil can contribute to an enjoyable experience. The availability of different barrel lengths opens options for those who might be considering concealed carry, though its relatively larger frame might not be ideal for all carriers.
Practical advice for owners is useful. Regularly cleaning and maintaining the Model 66 is essential to ensure its longevity and reliability. Careful selection of ammunition is also critical. While the Model 66 can handle both .357 Magnum and .38 Special rounds, choosing the right ammunition for your needs and skill level is essential. Recommendations for holster selection are also helpful. The selection of a holster should be based on factors such as carry style (e.g., concealed, open), comfort, and security.
Final Thoughts and Conclusion
In conclusion, the Taurus Model 66 presents a compelling choice in the realm of revolvers. Its blend of affordability, performance, and versatile features makes it a strong contender for a range of shooters. The gun’s robust construction, adjustable sights, and adaptable action contribute to a positive shooting experience.
The Model 66 is well-suited for individuals seeking a reliable and budget-friendly revolver for self-defense, home defense, or recreational shooting. It’s perhaps less ideally suited for those seeking a gun with premium features.
This is a classic and solid design. The Taurus Model 66 continues to be a popular choice for those seeking a dependable revolver.
